Discover the enticing world of zaatar, a captivating Middle Eastern spice blend that tantalizes taste buds with its harmonious fusion of earthy, nutty, and tangy flavors. Originating from the cherished lands of Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and Syria, this aromatic blend forms the heart of many delectable dishes, adding a distinctive touch to everyday meals.
From the classic zaatar manoushe, a delectable flatbread adorned with zaatar, olive oil, and tangy sumac, to the irresistible zaatar breadsticks, each recipe captures the essence of this versatile spice blend. Explore the delightful zaatar dip, a creamy concoction perfect for pita bread or vegetable crudités, and the tantalizing zaatar-spiced grilled chicken, where the smokiness of the grill complements the zaatar's rich flavors.
For a delightful vegetarian option, indulge in the hearty zaatar-spiced lentil soup, a comforting bowl of goodness that nourishes both body and soul. Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant streets of the Middle East with these zaatar recipes, each offering a unique expression of this beloved spice blend's culinary magic.
AUTHENTIC ZA'ATAR SPICE RECIPE
An authentic recipe for Za'atar Spice - a flavorful Middle Eastern Spice that can be used to season hummus, baba ganoush, vegetables, meats, etc. (My Egyptian Dad's recipe.)
Provided by Sylvia Fountaine | Feasting at Home Blog
Categories Spices
Time 5m
Yield ½ Cup
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl. Store in an airtight container.
- For the most flavor, toast whole seeds (cumin seeds and coriander seeds) until fragrant, then grind. This will make the most flavorful zaatar. If you don't have whole seeds, feel free to use ground spices.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 15 calories
HOMEMADE ZA'ATAR
This za'atar spice recipe is easy to make at home from scratch with just four ingredients. While in Lebanon wild thyme is used, regular thyme from the supermarket or your garden makes a fine substitute. Za'atar refers both to the thyme plant itself, as well as this spice mix.
Provided by Serena
Categories World Cuisine Recipes Middle Eastern Lebanese
Time 8m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until just golden, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Combine sesame seeds, thyme leaves, sumac, and salt in a bowl and stir until well combined.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 29.4 calories, Carbohydrate 1.8 g, Fat 2.3 g, Fiber 1 g, Protein 1 g, SaturatedFat 0.3 g, Sodium 194.7 mg
ZA'ATAR
A fragrant Middle Eastern mix that will instantly add a savoury spice to any dish
Provided by Miriam Nice
Time 7m
Yield makes 8
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Lightly toast the cumin seeds in a dry pan, just until they start to release their aroma. Grind them to a fine powder using a pestle and mortar then stir in all the other ingredients plus 2 tsp salt and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. It is now ready to use in your recipes, but will keep in a clean jar or airtight container for a month.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 26 calories, Fat 2 grams fat, SaturatedFat 0.3 grams saturated fat, Carbohydrate 0.2 grams carbohydrates, Sugar 0.1 grams sugar, Fiber 1 grams fiber, Protein 1 grams protein, Sodium 1.24 milligram of sodium
MY OWN ZA'ATAR
Unable to find sumac, I found some websites that recommend substituting lemon zest. This is what I decided on after loking at many recipes.
Provided by Elmotoo
Categories Southwest Asia (middle East)
Time 10m
Yield 1/3 cup
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Grind the toasted sesame seeds with a mortar and pestle.
- In a bowl, combine all ingredients well.
- Store in a tightly capped jar in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 746.1, Fat 61.7, SaturatedFat 8.6, Sodium 5251.5, Carbohydrate 39.1, Fiber 21.9, Sugar 0.6, Protein 22.8
ZA'ATAR
Za'atar is the name for both a traditional Middle Eastern seasoning blend and the pungent green herb that gives the blend its intense, earthy character. The hardy herb, which grows wild, tastes like a combination of oregano, marjoram, summer savory and thyme - all of which can be used as substitutes if dried za'atar isn't available. As with all spice blends, recipes vary widely depending on the region and the cook, but this one, adapted from Lior Lev Sercarz of La Boîte in New York, includes ground sumac berries for acidity, toasted sesame seeds for their rich, earthy notes, and a little salt as well. Za'atar can be used in marinades for grilled or roasted poultry or meats, mixed into dips, salads and egg dishes, or set on the table to be sprinkled on dishes as a bright and herby condiment.
Provided by Melissa Clark
Categories easy, condiments
Time 10m
Yield 1/3 cup
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Place a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sesame seeds to the skillet and toast, stirring, until fragrant, 2 to 4 minutes. Pour into a small bowl and set aside to cool.
- Using a spice grinder, clean coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle, ground the za'atar leaves with the sumac and salt. Add to the bowl with toasted sesame and mix well. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
ZA'ATAR
Za'atar, the Middle Eastern spice mixture is so delicious we suggest doubling the recipe and using the extra for a snack: Dunk some bread (such as pita) in flavorful olive oil and then in the za'atar.
Categories Condiment/Spread No-Cook Quick & Easy Summer Gourmet
Yield Makes about 5 tablespoons
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Stir together all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Available at Middle Eastern markets and by mail order from Kalustyan's (212-685-3451).
Tips:
- Use the freshest herbs possible. Dried herbs can be used, but fresh herbs will give your zaatar a more vibrant flavor.
- Toast the spices before grinding them. This will help to release their flavor and aroma.
- Grind the spices finely. This will help them to blend together and create a smooth paste.
- Use a mortar and pestle to grind the spices. This will give you more control over the texture of the zaatar.
- Store the zaatar in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It will keep for several months.
- Experiment with different ratios of herbs and spices. There is no one right way to make zaatar, so feel free to adjust the recipe to your own taste.
Conclusion:
Zaatar is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a delicious and healthy way to add flavor to your food. Whether you are using it as a dip, a marinade, or a seasoning, zaatar is sure to please. So next time you are looking for a new way to add flavor to your food, give zaatar a try. You won't be disappointed.
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